CAVE CITY, Ky.—First Lady Jane Beshear today participated in the grand opening of a new kind of adventure that allows visitors to have a birds-eye view of the forest near Mammoth Cave in Hart County.

One of the first zip line operations in the state, Canopy Zip Line Tours, opened today. Participants wear a harness that is attached to the zip line and travel at tree-line level.

“This is the first of several planned canopy zip line attractions in Kentucky that will expand adventure tourism opportunities,” said Mrs. Beshear. “This is an exciting way to see Kentucky’s beauty from another angle that will attract visitors from across the region.”

More zip lines are being planned in the Red River Gorge area in Eastern Kentucky.

Shane Bull has operated Mammoth Cave Adventures for three years, offering horseback riding, hiking and camping. The expansion to provide Canopy Zip Line Tours will add to the diverse selection of adventure opportunities to the area.

“We’ll help satisfy your adventurous side while you learn about the eco-system and the history that makes Mammoth Cave so unique,” said Bull. His parents, Becky and Larry Bull, have been in the tourism industry in Cave City for 20 years and operate a bed and breakfast and canoe and kayak service.

The five zip line courses, constructed by Challenge Me Group, LLC, range from 450 to 800 feet and are located near Mammoth Cave National Park.